Poker Square
by
Paradize
Poker Square is the latest release from Paradize, and although
it's *yet another* puzzle game, it is quite an interesting one.
Developed for 1MB Atari's, Poker Square is essentially a remake
of an old Atari GEM-based (mono) game, which Paradize have
bought up to date with colourful graphics and a much needed
audio boost.
The aim of the game is to distribute randomly selected playing
cards onto the square playing grid so that each horizontal,
vertical and diagonal 'hand' holds the highest poker score
possible. It sounds simple in theory, but in practice Poker
Square is actually quite a headache.
A good knowledge of the Poker scoring system is definitely
advantageous, but not necessary as the in-game animated rules
helpfully explain the different poker hands and their scores.
However, after playing the game I can't help but feel that
achieving a high score is mainly down to luck rather than player
skill.
Before playing Poker Square I had no knowledge whatsoever of the
poker scoring system. On my first few games I just randomly
placed cards on the board (with no idea as to what I was doing)
and much to my surprise, on my third go I received enough points
to get me in the top five on the high score table!
After reading through the rules I was able to start making some
strategic placements on the board, and I now understand why this
game may be appealing to (regular) poker players. I still
believe that achieving a high score is mainly down to luck, but
learning how to play the game properly does really pay off, and
after a bit of practice I was able to beat my previous fluke
attempt.
As with Paradize's other releases, the graphics are top quality
and the chip music by Marcer is particularly well suited to the
console-feel of the game. Although my first impressions were
relatively negative, I have to say that when I took the time to
learn how to play the game properly I did enjoy playing it.
Definitely one for poker heads.
Graphics 82
Sound 87
Game Concept 77
Gameplay 77
Lasting Appeal 82
Overall 81
J. Monkman for Alive, 2006-12-20
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